Authentication Dial-in User Service (RADIUS) standards and that is deployed in networks to enforce 802.1X authenticated IEEE 802.3 wired Ethernet access. 80211a 80211b 80211g 80211i 80211n ~ Different standards for operating wireless networks (Wi-Fi). Loo

Detailed Explanation of RADIUS and IEEE 802.11 Wireless Standards

Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS)
RADIUS is a networking protocol that provides centralized Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) for users and devices accessing a network. Widely used in enterprise environments, RADIUS serves as a robust mechanism to enforce secure network access policies.

1. Key Functions:

   • Authentication: Validates user credentials (such as usernames and passwords) to determine if the user should be granted access to the network.
   • Authorization: Determines the specific network resources a user is permitted to access.
   • Accounting: Tracks user activities, such as login and logout times, for monitoring and reporting purposes.

2. Deployment in 802.1X Networks:

   • In an IEEE 802.1X framework, RADIUS works as the backend server to authenticate devices attempting to connect to wired Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) or wireless (IEEE 802.11) networks.
   • The RADIUS server communicates with authenticators, such as switches or access points, to enforce secure access control.

IEEE 802.11 Wireless Standards (Wi-Fi)
The IEEE 802.11 series encompasses a range of standards that define the operation of wireless local area networks (WLANs). These standards address various aspects of Wi-Fi performance, such as speed, range, and security.

1. 802.11a:

   • Operates in the 5 GHz frequency band.
   • Offers speeds up to 54 Mbps.
   • Known for reduced interference compared to the 2.4 GHz band but has a shorter range.

2. 802.11b:

   • Operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band.
   • Provides speeds up to 11 Mbps.
   • Offers broader coverage but is more prone to interference.

3. 802.11g:

   • Operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band.
   • Supports speeds up to 54 Mbps, combining the speed of 802.11a with the range of 802.11b.

4. 802.11i:

   • Focuses on enhancing Wi-Fi security.
   • Introduced WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) for robust encryption and authentication.

5. 802.11n:

   • Operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
   • Achieves speeds up to 600 Mbps using Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology.
   • Offers improved range and reliability compared to earlier standards.

General Observations:

• As the series progresses (e.g., from 802.11a to 802.11n), there are advancements in speed, range, and security.
• The choice of standard depends on the specific needs of the network, including speed requirements, coverage area, and potential interference.

Disclaimer
The above information is provided as general reference material and should not be taken as specific advice. For accurate analysis and professional guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult an expert in the relevant field.